13 Spine-Chilling Short Horror Books to Haunt Your Nights

Discover spine-tingling tales with our guide to the best short horror books, perfect for quick thrills and chilling reads that linger long after.
BrandMy RatingPrice
By Leigh Paynter (Author)
Top Money-Saving Choice
8.6/10
Paul Tremblay (Author)
Best for Quick Reads
7.2/10
By Roald Dahl (Author)
Best for Classic Horror
9.2/10
By Richard Wells (Editor)
Best for Anthology Lovers
9.2/10
By Stephen King (Author)
9.2/10

Best Short Horror Books

If you’re seeking a thrilling escape into the dark corners of imagination, look no further than the realm of short horror books. These bite-sized tales pack a punch, delivering spine-chilling suspense and uncanny surprises in just a few pages. Prepare to be captivated and unsettled as we explore some of the best short horror stories that will leave you peering over your shoulder long after the final line.

Top Money-Saving Choice: The Pine Barrens' Devil

The Pine Barrens' Devil
Highlights
Unique monster concepts
Historically accurate settings
Campfire storytelling vibe

We absolutely love The Pine Barrens' Devil—our pick for the "Top Money-Saving Choice"!

Priced amazingly low, this collection of unique monster tales serves up a delightful dose of campfire storytelling.

While it may not deliver stomach-churning scares, the historically accurate settings and imaginative concepts will certainly keep you entertained.

At just 137 pages, it’s the perfect quick read for those with a penchant for the spooky.

Though we crave a bit more character depth and information, its charm makes it a steal for horror fans seeking a fun read without breaking the bank!

Be sure to also check out the best short history books for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!

Price history for The Pine Barrens' Devil on Amazon

Best for Quick Reads: Horror Movie

Horror Movie: A Novel
Highlights
Engaging plot
Cleverly ambiguous narrative
Unreliable main character

When it comes to short horror, this collection stands out as our pick for "Best for Quick Reads." Packed with 60 engaging tales, it's perfect for those moments when you crave a thrilling story but are short on time.

The cleverly ambiguous narratives keep you guessing, and the unreliable main character adds an intriguing layer of drama.

While it leans more on the dramatic side rather than outright fright, it still delivers a fun and captivating experience.

Just keep your expectations in check; if you’re looking for sheer terror, you might find it a tad lacking.

Be sure to also check out the best short thriller books for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!

Price history for Horror Movie on Amazon

Best for Classic Horror: Roald Dahl's Ghost Stories

Roald Dahl's Book of Ghost Stories
Highlights
Interesting ghost stories
Great for re-reading
Dahl's discerning collection

We absolutely adore Roald Dahl's Book of Ghost Stories!

This collection shines as the Best for Classic Horror, serving up a delightful mix of interesting tales that any horror aficionado should savor.

Dahl’s discerning eye ensures that these stories, while a bit dated, pack a timeless punch.

Although the title may be misleading and the vocabulary might trip up younger readers, the richness of the narratives makes them perfect for re-reading.

With 235 pages filled with chills and thrills, we can't help but recommend this gem to anyone eager to explore the shadows of literary horror!

Be sure to also check out the best short romance books for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!

Price history for Roald Dahl's Ghost Stories on Amazon

Best for Anthology Lovers: Damnable Tales

Damnable Tales: A Folk Horror Anthology
Highlights
Varied British dialects
Engaging folk horror tales
Beautiful illustrations

Damnable Tales: A Folk Horror Anthology is a delightful gem for anthology lovers!

With varied British dialects, this collection immerses you in a captivating world of folk horror stories.

Each tale is beautifully illustrated, adding depth and charm to your reading experience.

While some dialects may require concentration, the engaging narratives keep you on the edge of your seat.

Not every story delivers the same intensity, but that's what makes this anthology a treasure trove of surprises.

If you're looking to explore the rich tapestry of horror in just a few pages, this book is a must-add to your collection!

Be sure to also check out the best motherhood books for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!

Price history for Damnable Tales on Amazon

Night Shift

Night Shift
Highlights
Engaging, memorable stories
Classic Stephen King collection
High entertainment value

Get ready to dive into the eerie world of classic horror with this engaging collection from none other than Stephen King!

With memorable stories packed into 544 pages, this anthology is sure to provide a high entertainment value that will leave you hungry for more chills.

While some stories might stumble with inconsistent quality or boring endings, the thrill of the ride more than makes up for it.

We found it’s perfect for both longtime fans and newcomers alike.

So, if you’re seeking a quick fright, this short horror collection might just tickle your spine!

Be sure to also check out the best smoothie books for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!

Price history for Night Shift on Amazon

Fear

Fear: 13 Stories of Suspense and Horror
Highlights
Age-appropriate content
Engaging for young readers
Diverse story themes

When it comes to short horror, we love to recommend this anthology published by Speak!

With its age-appropriate content, it caters perfectly to young readers aged 12 and up.

The thrilling variety of themes will keep them engaged and eager for more chills.

While some stories shine brighter than others, the overall experience is enjoyable and perfect for those who might want to experience spookiness without diving into lengthy tales.

Just be prepared to revisit a few of the stories for full appreciation.

With a solid 4.6-star rating, this collection is a must-have for budding horror fans!

Be sure to also check out the best skateboard books for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!

Price history for Fear on Amazon

Don't Scream Short Horror Books

Don't Scream: 60 Tales to Terrify
Highlights
Quick, engaging reads
Impressive variety of stories
Creepy real-life themes

We’ve stumbled upon an intriguing gem in the realm of short horror: a collection that promises quick thrills and engaging stories to satisfy your eerie cravings.

With a remarkable variety, it explores creepy real-life themes that linger long after the last page is turned.

However, we must note that some of the writing feels a tad repetitive, and the endings, while atmospheric, can be a bit vague.

Despite these quirks, its 4.2-star rating speaks to its appeal among horror enthusiasts.

Perfect for a chilling evening, this book is sure to deliver a frightfully good time!

Be sure to also check out the best witchcraft books for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!

Price history for Don't Scream on Amazon

Hide And Don't Seek

Hide and Don't Seek: And Other Very Scary Stories
Highlights
Creative and unique stories
Engaging and captivating
Suitable for all ages

When it comes to short horror books, we couldn’t be more thrilled to dive into this collection!

With creative and unique stories that keep us on the edge of our seats, each tale offers an engaging and captivating experience suitable for readers of all ages.

However, we must admit that the brief nature of these stories might leave some looking for more.

Not every tale hits the mark, and a few predictable elements may crop up, but overall, this anthology is a delightful treat for thrill-seekers.

Prepare for a spine-tingling journey that’s perfect for a quick read!

Be sure to also check out the best southern cookbooks for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!

Price history for Hide And Don't Seek on Amazon

You Like It Darker

You Like It Darker: Stories
Highlights
Engaging short stories
Varied themes and topics
Perfect for King fans

With a collection crafted for both the thrill-seeker and casual reader, this anthology delivers engaging short stories that will haunt your thoughts long after the last page.

The varied themes and topics mean there's something for everyone, making it a perfect pick for Stephen King aficionados.

However, we did notice that some tales feel a bit rushed, and the quality can be inconsistent—not every story lingers in your memory.

Still, if you're in the mood for a quick scare, this compilation serves up enough chills to keep you turning the pages.

Embrace the suspense and find your next favorite horror piece!

Be sure to also check out the best hood books for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!

Price history for You Like It Darker on Amazon

The Silent Patient Short Horror Books

The Silent Patient
Highlights
Engaging psychological thriller
Intricate plot twists
Deep character exploration

We absolutely enjoyed diving into this engaging psychological thriller!

With its intricate plot twists and deep character exploration, this book is a deliciously dark treat for any horror aficionado.

We found ourselves turning the pages, eager to uncover each new layer of suspense.

However, we did notice a few unresolved plot holes and some limited character backgrounds that might leave you wanting more.

A heads-up: the pacing might feel slow at times, but the payoff is worth the wait.

If you’re ready for a chilling ride, this one is definitely worth adding to your collection!

Be sure to also check out the best triathlon books for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!

Price history for The Silent Patient on Amazon

Horror Stories To Tell In The Dark

Horror Stories To Tell In The Dark Book 1: Short Scary Horror Stories Anthology For Teenagers And Young Adults (Tales Of Terror)
Highlights
Gripping and interesting stories
Creepy supernatural twists
Great for all ages

We recently delved into a hauntingly delightful collection of short horror stories that truly captivated our imaginations.

With gripping narratives and creepy supernatural twists, it’s perfect for readers of all ages looking for a thrilling experience.

While we did notice a few typos and formatting issues throughout, the eerie atmosphere and well-crafted plots more than made up for these minor distractions.

With a solid average rating and a rank that keeps it in the spotlight, it's a must-read for ghost story enthusiasts.

Get ready to turn the lights down low and embrace the chills!

Be sure to also check out the best mormon books for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!

Price history for Horror Stories To Tell In The Dark on Amazon

Creepy Story Hour

Scary Short Stories for Teens Book 1: A Collection of Bone Chilling, Creepy, Horror Short Stories (Creepy Story Hour)
Highlights
Engaging short stories
Perfect for young adults
Thought-provoking themes

We absolutely enjoyed diving into this captivating collection of short horror tales! Independently published, it's perfect for young adults seeking a thrilling read.

With engaging stories that spark the imagination and explore thought-provoking themes, this book is a must-have for horror aficionados.

However, some tales felt a bit lackluster and might not satisfy every reader's taste.

Plus, its brief length may leave you wanting more.

Keep in mind, if you’re sensitive, some stories lean into the creep factor.

Still, with a solid 4.3-star rating from 334 reviews, this gem is definitely worth a look!

Be sure to also check out the best archery books for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!

Price history for Creepy Story Hour on Amazon

Intercepts Short Horror Books

Intercepts: A horror novel
Highlights
Engaging and creepy writing
Strong character development
Fast-paced and thrilling

We couldn't help but be captivated by this engaging horror read published by Tunnel Falls.

With its fast-paced and thrilling narrative, it pulls you in right from the eerie beginning.

The strong character development keeps you invested, even if the story has a bit of a slow start.

While there are minor editing hiccups and some graphic content that may not be for everyone, the overall experience is chillingly rewarding.

With an impressive 4.3-star rating from 13 reviews, this book deserves a spot on your shelf—perfect for those seeking a quick scare!

Dive in and enjoy the ride!

Be sure to also check out the best spot books for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!

Price history for Intercepts on Amazon

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